DIMA Expresses Concern Over the Impact of Bill 109’s Adoption and Highlights the Importance of the Regulatory Stage

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CONTACT: media@dima.org

MONTRÉAL, QUÉBEC, CANADA -Members of the Digital Media Association (DIMA)—the leading music streaming services—are committed to connecting Quebecers with the artists and listening experiences they love, in the language and format of their preference. As Bill 109 advances, DIMA remains concerned that new regulatory uncertainty could disrupt the stability that music services need to continue delivering the choice, access, and affordability that Quebecers currently enjoy.

Quebecers are clear about what matters: new Léger data shows that 66% do not want the government influencing which music is available on streaming services, and 63% say freedom to choose what they listen to is a top priority. This reflects how people experience music today—fans, not governments, drive discovery.

Streaming is also helping Quebec’s artists thrive. French-language music streams continue to rise—up 94% on some services since 2019—and Quebec music is reaching audiences around the world, with more than 100 million listeners in 180 countries engaging with Francophone music over the past year. Local artists such as Charlotte Cardin, Ariane Roy, Fernie, and Fredz are finding new fans at home and abroad, supported by playlists, editorial curation, and industry investment that spotlights Francophone talent.

DIMA members are committed to preserving Quebec culture and giving Quebecers what they want. However, we are concerned that Bill 109 is unclear and risks derailing the progress we’ve made to deliver Quebecers choice, access, and affordable listening. The upcoming regulatory phase is a crucial opportunity to ensure innovation, user choice, and a vibrant musical ecosystem remain at the forefront. DIMA looks forward to working with the government to avoid unintended outcomes harmful to user choice and affordability and help shape a practical, modern framework that benefits both consumers and Quebec’s music community.  – Graham Davies, President and CEO, DIMA

About DIMA
DIMA is the voice of music streaming advocating for the digital music innovations that have created unparalleled consumer choice and revolutionized the way music fans and artists connect. Representing the world’s leading music streaming companies and streaming innovators, DIMA’s mission is to promote and protect the ability of music fans to engage with creative content whenever and wherever they want and for artists to more easily reach old fans and make new ones. www.dima.org

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